April 29 (AP)

Actor Irrfan breathed his last on Wednesday, his spokesperson said in an official statement Wednesday. The actor was 53 years old, and was admitted to the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani hospital in Mumbai when he passed away. Irrfan is survived by wife Sutapa Sikder, and sons Babil and Ayan.

“‘I trust, I have surrendered’; These were the some of the many words that Irrfan expressed in a heartfelt note he wrote in 2018, opening up about his fight with cancer. And a man of few words and an actor of silent expressions with his deep eyes and his memorable actions on screen. It’s saddening that this day, we have to bring forward the news of him passing away. Irrfan was a strong soul, someone who fought till the very end and always inspired everyone who came close to him. After having been struck by lightning in 2018 with the news of a rare cancer, he took life soon after as it came and he fought the many battles that came with it. Surrounded by his love, his family for whom he most cared about, he left for his heavenly abode, leaving behind truly a legacy of his own. We all pray and hope that he is at peace. And to resonate and part with his words he had said, “As if I was tasting life for the first time, the magical side of it”,” read the statement.

Filmmaker Shoojit Sircar also tweeted his condolences for the actor.”My dear friend Irfaan. You fought and fought and fought. I will always be proud of you.. we shall meet again.. condolences to Sutapa and Babil.. you too fought, Sutapa you gave everything possible in this fight. Peace and Om shanti. Irfaan Khan salute,” nwrote Shoojit, who directed Irrfan in Piku.

The full statement from Irrfan’s spokesperson earlier today read, “It’s really disappointing to know that there are extreme assumptions being made about Irrfan’s health. While we are truly appreciative that people are concerned, it’s disheartening to see some sources spread extreme rumours and creating panic. Irrfan is a strong person and is still fighting the battle. We really request you to not fall for rumours and not partake in these conversations which are fictional. We have always actively clarified and shared updates on his health and we will continue doing so.”

On Saturday, Irrfan’s mother, Saeeda Begum, breathed her last in Jaipur. The actor couldn’t attend the funeral due to the nationwide lockdown. Irrfan was diagnosed with neuroendocrine tumour in 2018 and sought treatment in the UK for a year. The actor returned to India in February 2019 and shortly resumed shooting for his film, Angrezi Medium.In February this year, Irrfan addressed his fans in a heartwarming voice message, saying that he will not be able to promote the film owing to his health issues.